Tool Chest

I just built this tool chest for my grandson. He’s only 8 weeks old, though, so I’m planning on using it for the next 15 or 20 years before giving it to him. I put a little brass plate on the front of the lid with his name and birth date. And now I’ve got another grandson who’s 3 days old. I’m going to build one for him, too.

The tool chest was built from plans I found online (free). It’s called “Grandpa’s Tool Chest.”

I made the tool chest out of cedar. It’s about 2’ long, 1’ deep (front to back), and about 11” from bottom to top of lid. The plans did not call for the tray. That’s my addition. Stick-on cork on the floor of the tray compartments. I included a picture of the bottom of the tray. My first attempt at “bookmatching.” I’m happy with how that turned out. Some glue, of course, and a lot of those antique-looking cut nails. Finished with Arm-R-Seal.

This is very nice! I think waiting is a good idea… give it time to develop a little patina. Some day it will be a cherished heirloom. Although… I fear many of the heirlooms I give out so lovingly will end up in garage sales someday! Haha

I like it, I am always building chests but I have never tried anything like this before. I have attempted different designs (see my previous projects), but I am going to try this design sometime soon. I really like the raised lid panel. Very sharp!Good job on the tool chest.

Michael, if you had to do it all over again, would you use cedar? It does have a handsome look to it, but I wonder if it is too soft. especially to abuse and where the hinges attach to it..

I do like the look of this chest and I see myself borrowing from your design. I don’t kmow if I want to use cedar or go with maple. The lid looks really sharp in your project, and the detail of the brass plate is a nice touch. Also What kind of handles did you use?

Richard,The plans actually call for fir. Couldn’t get that here, so I bought cedar. Seemed like a close substitute. You’re right, though, cedar is pretty soft. The tool chest already has dings in it just from me bumping into things as I move it around. I’m still at the stage where I’m hesitant to spend $$$ on wood for a project, especially one that isn’t destined for the living room. If you make this of maple, it’ll be a real show piece. This project gives plenty of opportunity for innovation (e.g., my tray, and shelves and compartments).

Richard,I used the handles that the plans called for (from Horton-Brasses.com). Had I to do this over again, I’d use more substantial handles. I can see this tool chest becoming pretty heavy when loaded up with tools.

still a pretty cool design, like you said the cedar seems soft but I like the color of the wood with the light and dark streaks running through it. I will take your suggestions about the handles. I have always liked the design of these chests and the size of yours is just right.